CROWDS of people queued up to bag a bargain at the opening of a new store in Taunton.

Mayor of Taunton Deane, Cllr Catherine Herbert cut the ribbon to open the Bargain Buys discount store, in the former BHS outlet in North Street at 10am on Wednesday (November 28).

There was plenty of interest from shoppers, with scores of people milling around inside - and picking up vouchers on their way out.

Cllr Herbert said: “I think this is positive thing for North Street. It is a big space that has been filled in Taunton.

“It is such a massive store with an array of products, it’s almost like going on a day trip.

“I wish Bargain Buys the best for the future.”

To celebrate the opening, the store hosted a gameshow which included balloons and prize giveaways, with customers given treats as well as discount vouchers. 

The newly-designed store has been modelled to enhance the shopping experience for customers and has created 30 jobs. 

Emma Jordan, manager, said: “I have been part of the Poundstretcher family for 21 years and was the manager of their Bridge Street store for five years. 

“I came to manage this site so I could take on a bit of a challenge. 

“I am happy with how the store opening has gone and how the store has turned out. 

“The staff have worked 12-hour days for the last four days to get all of this ready and it has certainly paid off. We are looking forward to the future.”

Customers cheered as the store was opened and many praised the new store. 

One customer said: “I am pleased to see the old BHS store has been filled. It is a lovely store which fills a gap on Taunton’s high street.”

Nadir Lalani, executive chairman of Bargain Buys, said: “We are pleased to be opening a brand new store to the people of Taunton with loads of fantastic branded products and look forward to opening another 50 stores over the coming months, creating more than 750 jobs.

“The team is working hard to deliver an outstanding shopping experience, great service, and an enjoyable shopping environment for all our new customers.”